Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H7855

Introduced
2/27/26  

Caption

Defines a special assessment as an assessment that is not a part of the condominium association budget and would apply to condominiums created before July 1, 1982, but only apply with respect to events and circumstances occurring after that date.

Impact

The impact of H7855 on state laws pertains to the governance of condominiums and how financial obligations are defined. By clearly distinguishing special assessments from regular budgetary assessments, the bill aims to provide both clarity and protection to condominium associations and individual unit owners. This is particularly relevant for older condominiums that may be navigating outdated regulations, thereby ensuring more equitable financial practices. Additionally, it reinforces the importance of documentation and procedural correctness when adopting amendments or accepting provisions from the updated laws.

Summary

House Bill H7855 introduces amendments to the existing condominium laws focusing on the definition and application of special assessments specifically for condominiums established before July 1, 1982. A 'special assessment' is defined under this bill as any assessment not included in the regular budget of the condominium association, reflecting a shift in how such financial measures are governed within older condominium structures. This distinction is set to clarify the financial responsibilities and operational protocols for older condominiums that may not have been standardized under newer regulations.

Contention

Some points of contention surrounding H7855 may stem from concerns regarding the potential implications for associations looking to adopt these new definitions and rules. Critics may argue that the complexity introduced could hinder the operational capacity of older condominiums that are already facing financial or administrative challenges. Conversely, supporters might assert that these changes will foster a clearer framework for managing condominium-related financial issues, thus promoting better governance and accountability. The balance between facilitating administrative ease while ensuring robust financial oversight might become a significant aspect of the debate surrounding this bill.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H5330

Provides that amendments to §§ 34-36.1-1.03 and 34-36.1-3.08 are applicable to condominiums created before July 1, 1982, provides a definition for the term “special assessment” and allows unit owners to participate in association meetings remotely.

RI H5156

Provides that the “meetings” requirements from § 34-36.1-3.08 be applicable to condominiums created before July 1, 1982, and would permit remote participation in condominium meetings.

RI S0496

Provides that the “meetings” requirements from § 34-36.1-3.08 be applicable to condominiums created before July 1, 1982, and would permit remote participation in condominium meetings.

RI S0509

Provides that the “meetings” requirements from § 34-36.1-3.08 be applicable to condominiums created before July 1, 1982, and would permit remote participation in condominium meetings.

RI H5823

Voids any provision in a condominium declaration or bylaw that would limit an increase in annual assessments relative to a percentage of the prior year's assessment.

RI H5826

Creates a process for condominium associations to give notice to and obtain approval from unit mortgage holders for certain association actions.

RI H5825

Restricts increases in monthly common expenses and limit special assessments to cover unforeseen costs not included in condo association’s approved annual budget for common expenses in associations where the minority of the units are deed-restricted units

RI S0724

Restricts increases in monthly common expenses and limit special assessments to cover unforeseen costs not included in condo association’s approved annual budget for common expenses in associations where the minority of the units are deed-restricted units

RI H5587

References both the declaration and bylaws of a condominium association as possible sources of association insurance regulation for the condominiums and require additional insurance to protect unit owners, when necessary.

RI H5586

Creates process for condominium associations to give notice to and obtain approval from unit mortgage holders for certain association actions by mailing a written request for approval to the unit mortgagees via regular and certified mail.

Similar Bills

HI SB2433

Relating To Condominiums.

HI SB3309

Relating To Condominiums.

HI HB2453

Relating To Condominiums.

MI SB0272

Housing: condominium; definition of undeveloped land; modify. Amends sec. 67 of 1978 PA 59 (MCL 559.167).

HI HR23

Requesting The Auditor To Conduct A Sunrise Analysis Of Condominium Association Managers.

HI HCR24

Requesting The Auditor To Conduct A Sunrise Analysis Of Condominium Association Managers.

TX HB4812

Relating to the authority of a municipality or county to regulate condominiums.

HI SB1601

Relating To Condominiums.